Is it dangerous to buy used tires? [VIDEO]

Improper storage of tires by users can cause serious but invisible damage. Therefore, drivers need to be extremely careful when buying used tires, even if they are in seemingly perfect condition.

Buying used tires is always risky. Only x-raying the tire, although not always, gives us more confidence that the tire is definitely good. There may be minor repairs that you cannot see. When something is new, direct from the manufacturer or distributor, we are 100% safe. However, if something has already been used once, there is no such guarantee, emphasizes Piotr Zeliak, President of the Polish Tire Industry Association, in an interview with Newseria Biznes.

Zelak acknowledges that the secondary tire market in Poland is doing very well. Many Poles cannot afford to buy new car tires. Used tires are supplied both domestically and abroad.

However, there is a risk associated with purchasing such tires. As Zelak explains, Poles most often judge a tire by its tread condition and overall appearance. Meanwhile, a tire that is several years old, even if it seems to be worn a little, can be seriously damaged. One of the reasons is poor storage by the previous owners.

– Certain types of damage can occur inside the tire, such as damage to the cord, which is responsible for the durability of the tire. Later in the life cycle, when extreme braking conditions are required, this can lead to an accident, notes Zelak. “If it was a really good tire, the owner probably wouldn't take it apart.

He emphasizes that a new tire, even if it is the same age as a used one, will be in better technical condition. This is because tire dealers take care to store them in the right conditions.

“In fact, there is no difference between a tire that is several years old and a tire made yesterday,” Zelak says.

He emphasizes that choosing new tires is not difficult, since the instructions for each car indicate the width, profile and diameter of the tire, as well as the speed index (i.e., the maximum speed at which you can drive with this tire). Additional information useful to drivers can be found on the tire labels, which were introduced in November 2012. They indicate the tire's fuel efficiency, wet grip, and the noise generated while driving.

Zelak emphasizes that in case of doubt, it is necessary to consult specialists in vulcanization services.